Hike that follows the course of a river, including potholes, waterfalls and waterholes of rare beauty. Forcing the hiker to numerous fords that, like it or not, they will often cool off your feet, especially during periods when the water flow is greater. After a series of fords, always in the shade of trees, you come to a crossing followed by a rise of some steps cut into the rock following a path segment equipped with metal chain. The hike affords many wonderful scenic views of the river and waterfalls.

Related

Maggiana Tower(1.5 km)

Also called Tower of Barbarossa, stands high over Mandello dating from the twelfth century. The tower has been rebuilt over the years, but retains interesting architectural features like the arched portal, the remains of painted trophies and a nineteenth-century terrace where you can enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Como and the mountains. Inside, the tower is home to an ethnographic museum with a model of the town and several exhibits that recall history of past farmers and inhabitants of the area.

Route

Start from the small hamlet of Rongio that is part of Mandello del Lario. From the small piazza Sant’Antonio go to the little square behind the bar Simone. Follow the signs that say No. 14 to Refugio Elisa and No. 18 for Gardata, Alpe Cetra, Refugio Bietti. Within a few hundred metres from the starting point you will find a cable and pole used for hauling materials. Immediately after this, on the left, you will find a trail that leads down to the river (in the summer it may be overgrown). Follow the river until you find a bridge that crosses over. Cross over the bridge and continue along the other side of the river. Follow signs for "Sentiero del fiume" (15B). Enjoy the river and waterfalls. Give yourself enough time to return on the same path.

When to Go

This hike is best in the summer and fall when there is no ice. Consider hiking boots that have some water resistance as you may need to walk over stepping stones in the water. Some parts of the path are exposed. Some parts have chains for assistance. This is a great hike for cooling off when the weather in Lake Como gets unbearably hot. You can swim in the river and natural pools when the weather is very warm. There are no real spectacular views, the hike is about being around a seemingly endless flowing stream with mountain pools.

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